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Here’s a tasty tidbit from my contemporary romantic suspense, Love Unlocked. If you’re in the mood for a little action, a lot of sexy banter, and some art appreciation, I hope you’ll check it out!

All she wants is a fresh start…

Retired art thief Eve Caplin traveled all the way from Paris to California looking for a fresh start in a small town. When she locks herself out of her home, she gets much more than she bargained for in Hudson Cleary, part-time locksmith and world famous artist. She wants to resist Hudson’s seductive pull, but can’t refuse his help when a man from her past blackmails her into stealing a ten million dollar painting. Not only does Hudson have access to the painting, he may hold the key to her damaged heart.

All he wants is her…

Hudson hasn’t picked up a paintbrush in two years. When he unlocks Eve Caplin’s door, the mysterious beauty arouses much more than just his creative impulses. He needs Eve in his studio and wants her in his bed. When he discovers danger closing in, he must decide how far over the line he’s willing to go to protect her.

Will he lose his heart, his muse, and his freedom all in one unforgettable night?

Enjoy an excerpt from Love Unlocked

“So what’s the plan?”

“What do you mean?”

“The plan, you know, how are you going to steal the painting?” He spoke more calmly than he felt.

“I hardly think you need to know about that.”

“John mentioned involving me. Let me help.” He needed her to let him help her. He couldn’t stand by and let her face the threat of prison, bodily harm, or death all alone. Somewhere between her locked front door and the Rembrandt, Eve had become his to protect, and he wouldn’t let her down.

She pushed back from the bar, hands on her hips. “John was out of his mind to suggest such a thing, and you have no business being anywhere near this situation.”

God, she could be stubborn. “Then why did you tell me about it?”

She goggled at him for a moment, then ignored his question. “John and I can handle it. We have to get access to a museum fundraiser where the painting is going to be displayed and take it from there. It’s simple really. You’re not needed.”

Hudson saw his window and he went for it. “A fundraiser? Not for the Santa Barbara Art Museum?”

She was slow to respond. “Yes, actually.”

His chest surged with relief that he could offer her something that might help her stay out of harm’s way. “I donated a print to their charity auction. It’s a joint fundraiser for the museum and for art education scholarships for low income high schoolers.”

“Of course it is,” she grumbled.

“Which means I have an invitation,” he said. “Want to be my plus one?”

She bit her lip and crossed her arms. She wouldn’t be able to turn down his perfect way in, and he’d be at her side, keeping the wolves at bay.

“It’s dangerous, you’d get us all caught.”

He smiled. He knew rationalizations when he heard them. She was going to cave any minute.

“You need my help,” he said, moving closer. “I don’t like the thought of you out there up to no good on your own.” They were so close they were practically breathing the same air.

“I won’t be alone,” she said halfheartedly. “I’ll have John.”

He wasn’t above playing dirty. He slid a hand around the back of her neck, stroking the soft hair that covered it like a waterfall. It took physical effort to keep from shuddering at the intense pleasure the sensation brought him. “I really don’t like the thought of you out with John at some swanky party. You’ll probably be dressed to the nines. High heels and everything,” he murmured.

Libby Waterford writes steamy contemporary romances. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two sons, where she works off her weekly pilgrimage to In-N-Out by swimming and climbing the city's secret staircases.

Sexy and we know it! They’re on the hunt after your heart. Discover 10 brand new passionate tales of friendship, desire, wolves, survival, and redemption. Escape to another world, another place, and another romance…

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My contribution is Violet’s Shadow – Book #1 in the Shadow Mates Series………

Violet’s Shadow

Violet’s spent her whole life searching for where she belongs. When she finds it and her shadow comes to life, it’s only the beginning.

Two weeks alone in a secluded cabin is music to Violet’s ears. Until she sees a shadow in the forest with red glowing eyes. Red eyes she’s seen in her dreams for as long as she can remember. Eyes that make her want to forget the rest of the world. But she doesn’t believe in fairy tales anymore.

Rayden was sent to protect her. To keep her safe. Nothing more than to guide her as she transitions into a Shadow and takes her rightful place in the pack. What he finds instead is the mate he’s been unwilling to search for and a passion so fierce he’ll never be able to walk away.

Violet’s spent her entire life aching to belong and she finally finds it in the pack of Shadows she is destined to join. Everything she’s ever wanted in life and love is finally at her fingertips if she’s brave enough to embrace…her Shadow.

Excerpt from Violet’s Shadow by Jennifer Kacey

“He can’t protect you all the time.” He glared at the wolf. “Mathias has been waiting for her.”

The menace lacing his words made her pause more than the words themselves did.

“Protect me? Who are you?”

“Yours isn’t the only pack who know about her,” he said, ignoring her and her question.

The second guy hobbled his way towards the woods, when the supposed leader picked up Mr. Nighty Night and threw him over his shoulders like a sack of potatoes. “We’ll be back.” He turned to go, muscles rippling like he was about to come out of his skin. “Shadow,” he grunted with a less than concealed sneer in her companion’s direction.

Mr. Naked walked into the tree line on the far side, entering the forest about ten feet to the left of the other guy. Without another backwards glance they just disappeared. She looked down to face her unlikely ally, and found his teeth bared and hackles raised.

This time he was looking most squarely in her direction. And he did not look pleased.

“What nightmare am I in and how do I get off the ride?” Joking sounded like a good idea. Well…other than the whole talking to a large predator, with extremely pointy teeth part.

“Go inside.”

The words were inside her head again. “You’ve really got to stop doing that,” she said out loud as she continued to stand there. “I don’t normally hear animals talk in my head and it’s kind of freaking me out.”

The Shadow bristled and stalked forward. Violet finally backed over the threshold, flipping on the light right inside which chased away the shadows. Well. All but one of them apparently. Stepping away from the door a different kind of anticipation assaulted her.

“So you’ve heard me this whole time? You heard me tell you to stay inside. And you heard me tell you to go inside and you didn’t? You heard me tell you to protect yourself and instead you chose to put yourself in harm’s way when I could have easily defended us?”

“Yes to all but the last part.”

A growl bounced off the walls of the small space, landing in the pit of her stomach. “How was I supposed to know you could defend us? How was I supposed to know you weren’t going to eat me? This is the first time we’ve met, Shadow—”

“Shadow is what I am, not who I am.”

Violet’s knees hit the couch and she “oofed” as she fell onto it. All the while the wolf continued to pad closer.

“Again, why did you not follow my orders?”

“Orders. As if. Well let’s see. You appeared in the woods out of nothing, and I was pretty sure I was losing my mind. Then you chase me all the way here, and I think I’m going to be your dinner. Not to mention the fact I don’t follow orders real well. Then I hear you in my mind. What was I supposed to do? Invite you in for dinner? Then you place yourself between me and the knotheads out there—who I’m assuming you knew were there. Just hide and leave you with three dudes who wanted to play tee ball with your head? Right. Not in my nature.”

He stopped in front of her slightly parted legs and faced her with those glowing red eyes. “But you will follow my orders.”

Violet wet her lips and stifled a moan as he leaned forward and nuzzled at the top of her thighs. “I don’t like anyone telling me what to do.” Except in bed, she added in her head as he breathed in deeply. Directly over her pussy. There was no doubt he could smell how wet she was. Could be from the adrenaline from the fight.

Or her being scared shitless earlier. It definitely wasn’t from the single command he issued in a voice lilting with some kind of accent. She clenched her hands into fists at her side to refrain from grabbing his head and holding it in just…the…right…spot.

This really took the term animal attraction to a whole new level.

“But you like me telling you what to do. Don’t you?”

And with that he licked her jeans. A whimper escaped her throat as he ran his tongue over Violet’s denim covered pussy. Then he reared slightly up and placed his forepaws on either side of Violet’s hips. “Do not move your hands.”

She raised her hand to touch his fur. “Who are you?”

The room shifted and Violet’s eyes began to water like she was looking at the hot pavement in Florida. She blinked to clear her vision and gasped, assaulted with the most breathtaking man she’d ever seen. His sun-kissed skin and mahogany hair radiated strength and vitality and his startlingly focused gaze weighed upon her.

His red eyes brightened and his nostrils flared as he stared at her, drinking her in.

And he was naked. Bare as the men outside had been. While she barely noticed them, he was beautiful.

Solid muscle under sinew of flesh she ached to taste. And his scent? It was like the most perfect cologne she’d ever smelled. Another whimper passed her vocal cords and she trapped her bottom lip between her teeth for a moment. “What are you?”

He tunneled his fingers through her hair and yanked her forward, stopping no more than a whisper away from his lips being on hers.

She instinctively grabbed onto his hips and dug her fingers in. Holding on. She never wanted to let him go.

When he spoke, the flesh of his mouth moved against hers. He breathed the words into her soul as if they were something she’d needed to exist even a moment longer.

“I’m…your Shadow.”

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Need a little extra sizzle to get you through the day?!? May I suggest a bit of kink….

Jennifer Kacey is a writer, mother, and business owner living with her family in Texas. She sings in the shower, plays piano in her dreams, and has to have a different color of nail polish every week. The best advice she’s ever been given? Find the real you and never settle for anything less.

I’m going to just jump right in and get the easy stuff out of the way up-front. I am a wife, mother and business owner in Texas with very long black hair and a penchant for high heels and pretty outrageous toe nail polish. I have a very supportive family that I love unconditionally and am fortunate enough to genuinely like and respect them as well.
I started reading romance back in college, liked it so-so, and then I found erotica. Stories a bit on the dark side, a lot on the naughty side, and at the risk of sounding cheesy, it felt like coming home. Finding a genre made just for minds like mine was an amazing revelation, and I swear the characters in my head haven’t stopped hounding me since!
Something I always love reading about other authors are the funny quirks and idiosyncrasies that make each of us unique, so I thought I’d share a few of mine. These are in no particular order and pretty random, so brace yourselves…
I am a morning person who doesn’t drink caffeine, and I am definitely a glass-half-full kind of girl. I have an extreme case of being left-hand stupid and am bad at all sports that end in “ball”! Hot weather is my favorite because I'm cold all the time, and I adore lying in the sun. You’ll find a closed sign hanging off my forehead at 10 p.m. pretty much every night when my brain clocks out. What’s weird is I can write ‘til the wee hours of the morning though. Probably because the characters just shove me aside so they can say their piece.
Ooh, and I never procrastinate! If something needs to be done today, it should have been finished yesterday. I call this fantastic; several people, who shall remain nameless, call it having a bug up my A**… I think I’ll stick with fantastic.
I refuse to use a flat sheet to sleep, I love perfume but only one kind, and before I die I want to own flip-flops in every color of the rainbow. And last but not least, the yea or nay on a particular food being deemed good or gross is based off of texture first, taste second.
I hope my writing speaks for itself, and I hope it speaks to you. The fact that I have the opportunity to share a little piece of myself with you absolutely floors me. On a daily basis I am overwhelmed by the good fortune that is my life, and vowed years ago never to take it for granted.
Best advice I’ve ever been given – find the real you and never settle for anything less! Well guess what? I found her! Lord help the rest of you.

Today I’m pleased to be sharing an “inside look” at the making of my latest gay romance, A Secret Match. It’s a sizzling contemporary novella set in the world of professional wrestling.

Before we get started, let me answer the question lots of folks may be asking: “Why do you write gay romances? You’re not a man or gay.” I generally respond with: “Why shouldn’t I? I wrote a vampire romance, and I’ve never been a vampire.” (I’m also not a wrestler, but I’ve been a wrestling fan my whole life.)

But seriously, I’m a writer. And as a writer, I write whatever romance book comes to me, whether it’s a contemporary, historical, paranormal, or gay romance. My stories are about people who meet, fall in love, and overcome obstacles to be with each other. This basic philosophy applies whether the characters are same-sex, different sex, or space alien and earth girl. Love is love and romance is romance. I’m not married to one specific genre or heat level. I go where the story and the characters take me.

When A Secret Match came out, a friend asked me: “How do you write a gay romance?” I replied: “The same way I write my other romances. I write the story that’s in my head.” For me, writing a M/M romance is no different than writing a romance in any other genre. All the elements of telling any good story: an interesting plot, characters readers care about, sensory details and descriptions, etc., are the same.

So, how did A Secret Match come about? I’ve been a wrestling fan my whole life and A Secret Match is a follow-up (of sorts) to my other wrestling romance, A Perfect Match. That book is about a straight couple (Vin and Danni) and Everett (the main character from A Secret Match) is a secondary character (and Vin’s best friend).

I loved writing for Ev— he’s one of those characters who tries to run away with the book. I always thought “one day” I’ll give him a story of his own, but I didn’t have a clue as to what the plot would be. I put thoughts of him aside and wrote other books. Then, one morning as I was driving to work, he popped into my head with a four-line book summary. Within an hour, I had the whole story in my head and I started writing.

A big part of the storyline centers around Everett dealing (or rather, not dealing) with his sexuality and his (un)willingness to be open about who he really is. Ev’s longtime partner, Josh, is tired of being kept in his “walk-in closet” and wants Ev to come out (at least to his friends and family) but Everett is concerned about losing his job. Will fans accept a gay wrestler? How will his boss react? Part of him wants to keep everything just as it is because that’s safe. But another part of him longs to stop hiding the truth.

When I wrote the book, I focused on Ev’s anguish over being caught between two worlds: his job (where his wrestling persona is a horny womanizer) and his secret, private life with Josh. Everett can’t balance the two and worries about what the other wrestlers would think of him coming out.

As Ev tells Vin as they discuss the issue of gay athletes in sports: “Sure, gay athletes are out there, but a gay baseball player doesn’t have the type of physical contact with other guys like we do. Does he grab other men when he’s all sweaty and crawl on top of them to cover them for a pin? No. There are all sorts of issues—changing in the locker room, showering together… Can you imagine some of the things that would go through the guys’ heads when I tried to put a hold on them? You think they wouldn’t freak out when I touched them if they knew?”

Vin’s reply: “You won’t know if you never take the risk.”

And risk Ev does. After he comes out (twice, in fact—I loved writing those scenes!), he discovers a different side to himself, embraces who he is, and even faces down intolerant fans and homophobic coworkers.

I enjoyed showing Everett on his journey of self-acceptance. He’s a bit of a cocky wise-ass, and definitely a fun character to write for. I was glad to give Ev and Josh the happy-ever-after ending they rightly deserve (and some hot love scenes!), because no matter what, love is love, and that’s all that matters.

I hope you’ll check it out! A Secret Match is available in paperback and ebook formats, and it’s received several excellent reviews. In the meantime, here’s the summary, a spicy excerpt, and purchase links.

Happy Reading!

Kelli A. Wilkins

A Secret Match

Everett Kinkade is a world-famous professional wrestler and the sexy heartthrob of millions of adoring female fans. But Ev has a secret he doesn’t dare share with anyone. He’s gay.

After years of being Ev’s secret lover, Josh is tired of hiding in the shadows and wants Ev to openly acknowledge their relationship. Coming out is the last thing Ev wants and fears it will ruin his career.

One night in a moment of truth, Everett outs himself on live TV. There’s no going back, and his announcement sparks a firestorm of problems – both personally and professionally. He’s forced to come to grips with who he really is while facing down a tag team out to destroy him.

Torn between living a lie and losing the man he loves, Ev has risked everything… can he find a balance between his career and his heart?

Excerpt

“Maybe we’ll take a swim later,” Ev said as he closed the bedroom door and picked the box off the nightstand. “This is for you.”

“A present? For me?” Josh smiled as he took the box.

“Well, technically it’s for both of us.” Ev bowed his head. “I thought…we might…you know. Oh, just open it,” he finished in a rush.

Josh unwrapped the box. It held a bottle of lube, condoms, and a sample pack of flavored lotions. “This is sweet.”

“I didn’t get anything kinky. I wasn’t sure if you’re into that or what…”

“I like to play around, but that can wait for another time.” He pulled Ev close for a kiss and felt him quiver. “Are you okay?”

Everett glanced into his eyes. “Yeah, I want to do this, but…it’s been a long time.”

He kissed Ev and slid his hands down his wide back, caressing him through his shirt. The scent of Ev’s citrus and sage cologne made his heart beat faster.

“Don’t worry about a thing. Relax. You’re safe with me. I’ll take care of everything.” He kissed Ev again, and a quiver ran up his spine as Everett slipped his tongue into his mouth. Josh cupped Ev’s tight buttocks through his jeans, pressing their lower bodies together. They lost themselves in the embrace, touching and stroking each other.

“Let me make love to you the way you deserve. Now strip for me, Muscles,” Josh teased. “Everything but the pants.”

Everett took off his shirt and kicked off his shoes and socks. Josh grinned at the sight of Ev’s wide, tan chest and his flat belly. He stepped closer, trailing his hand down Ev’s six-pack abs. “Nice.”

Josh gathered Ev in his arms and nuzzled his neck, planting tiny kisses from his neck to his chest muscles. He kissed Everett’s pecs, then swirled his tongue around his left nipple. He spent the next few minutes licking and kissing Ev everywhere, slowly making his way down his stomach…

Kelli A. Wilkins is an award-winning author who has published more than 95 short stories, 19 romance novels, and 5 non-fiction books.
Her newest book, You Can Write—Really! A Beginner’s Guide to Writing Fiction was released in February 2015. This fun and informative non-fiction guide is based on her 15 years of experience as a writer, and is available exclusively on Amazon.
Kelli published three romances in 2014: Dangerous Indenture (a spicy historical/mystery), Wilderness Bride (a tender historical/Western/adventure), and A Secret Match (a gay contemporary set in the world of professional wrestling). Her romances span many genres and heat levels and yet she’s also been known to scare readers with a horror story. In 2014, her horror fiction appeared in Moon Shadows, Wrapped in White, and Sherlock Holmes Mystery Magazine.
Kelli posts on her Facebook author page https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKelliWilkins and Twitter: www.Twitter.com/@KWilkinsauthor. She also writes a weekly blog: http://kelliwilkinsauthor.blogspot.com/. Visit her website, www.KelliWilkins.com to learn more about all of her writings, read excerpts, reviews, and more. Readers can sign up for her newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/HVQqb.

About Riverswept: Molly is a PR rep for a coal mining company. Finnley is the owner of an ecotourism business that offers river excursions. She’s determined to make her mining client look good. He’s determined to shut it down before it destroys the river. When she goes head-to-head against Finn and his group of protesters, she begins to see the issue from a new point of view. When the two adversaries come together, they are swept away in a flood of passion.

About Anneka Ever: Anneka Ever’s contemporary love stories are set in the mountains and small towns of Virginia. Anneka lives in Virginia with her husband and three dogs. Find out where to buy Riverswept by visiting her website: www.AnnekaEver.com.

Finnley’s eyes gleamed in the faint light of the dash. Molly thought of the wolves watching them from the dark and then she thought of the unknown person trying to get in her house. She started to shake. Grasping the door handle, she said, “Why don’t you come inside for a while?”

He followed her to the cottage but stood at the entrance. “I don’t want to get your floor wet. I’m dripping.”

Lightning flashed in the patch of sky framed by the door, creating an amethyst corona behind him. She grabbed the front of his shirt and pulled him inside. He didn’t even give her time to shut the door before he embraced her. She touched her lips to the raindrops on his face and then pulled back to see his reaction. He stared at her with an intense expression. His eyes glinted like gold.

He lifted her arms and placed them around his neck. He wrapped his arms around her waist. A tic pulsed in the hollow of his throat. She laid her head against his chest and listened to his heart thump. Her brain screamed Danger! Danger! Danger! Her body ignored her brain.

She slid her hands under his damp shirt. She explored the topography of his chest. Moving her arms around him, she ran her fingers down his spine. She found two dimples in his lower back. Her thumbs fit there, as if his body had been designed to complement hers. She sighed.

His mouth turned up just enough to let his dimple slip. He kissed her gently, his lips pressed against hers in a simple buss. The restraint in that kiss kindled such a fire inside Molly that she knew hell couldn’t be as hot as she was at that moment.

She pulled away from him and stumbled into the kitchen. Following her, he lifted her onto the counter. Sliding the sundress up to the top of her thighs, he placed his hands on her knees, pulled them apart, and stepped into the open space. Moaning, she wrapped her legs around him. Grasping his T-shirt, she peeled it off him and tossed it onto the floor. She grazed his nipple with her tongue; he tasted salty-sweet.

Book editor Hannah Levinson couldn’t be happier. This “Nice Jewish Girl” is ready to marry the man she’s longed after for half her life. When her fiancé suggests they audition for Last Fling, a steamy new reality show for engaged couples, she lets herself be swayed. Maybe she’ll learn a thing or two.

Vlad Shustov’s fall from a once-bright career as a competitive figure skater was swift. Now trapped by a shameful past and an uncertain future, “Vlad the Bad” strips for cash. Joining the cast of Last Fling could earn him a fortune—or at least enough to finally leave stripping. But to win the show’s prize, he must seduce an engaged woman, something he can’t even bear the thought of.

Hannah’s not like any woman Vlad’s met before. Betrayed by the man she thought she loved and relegated to the ugly-duckling role she’d worked so hard to shed, can she trust there’s more to Vlad than meets the eye? With sleazy TV tactics shattering the last shreds of the contestants’ confidence, they’ll have to believe true happiness is not only possible…it may be looking right at them.

Enjoy this excerpt from “Turning it On”

Hannah sighed and shook her head. “I’m not usually such an emotional mess. It’s just this show. This whole situation! Back there…” she flung her arm wide, in the direction of the mainland. “I’m successful. Accomplished. I have a great job. I live in New York City. Here, all anyone cares about is how hot I am. Or more to the point, how hot I’m not!”

“Exactly! I can’t compete. I’m not like those other women, and I don’t even want to be. But I have no choice. Not unless I want to lose my fiancé to a scheming bimbo and have the entire nation talking about what a pathetic loser I am. It’s humiliating.”

“You can always learn to be sexy.” Vlad looked her over. “You’ve got the right equipment. All you need is to learn to use it. I am around sexy women all the time. I could coach you. You know…sexy lessons.”

“Sexy lessons?” She had to laugh at that. “I’ve never thought of sexy as a learned skill.”

“It is, though. All about how you carry yourself.” He adjusted his posture and the set of his broad shoulders conveyed a confidence that was undeniably hot.

“And who better to teach me than a guy named Vlad the Bad who takes off his clothes for a living?”

“As Uncle Ivan used to say, it pays to work with best coach you can find.”

She laughed again, but didn’t entirely dismiss the idea. Putting a little strut in her stuff held surprising appeal. Yet what was the catch? A guy who willingly signed on for a trashy show like Last Fling must want something. “And in return?”

He thought a moment and Hannah tensed, afraid of what he might ask. Then he gave a decisive nod. “I want you to read my book. Not just query, synopsis, “sorry not right for us,” but the whole thing. You don’t have to buy, but I want honest, professional critique of how to make it better.”

Honest and professional? Yikes. What would she say if the book was god-awful, which it likely was? He’d pinned so much hope to it, she couldn’t bear to be the one to discourage him. On the other hand, at least she would be gentle and constructive. And if it was good, this was a chance to help him achieve his dream. She imagined taking the book to her boss. Sales and Marketing would drool over this hot Russian male stripper–turned-literary sensation. As would everyone else. And if it kept Jack from Robynne’s clutches, it was worth the risk.

Contemporary romance author Elizabeth Harmon combines unique settings and characters, to create stories that are sexy, sweet…and a little bit surprising. Her debut novel “Pairing Off,” Red Hot Russians #1, is set in the world of international competitive figure skating. “Turning It On,” Red Hot Russians #2, will be released June, 29, 2015. “Getting It Back,” Red Hot Russians #3, is scheduled for release in March, 2016. She is published by Carina Press. A community journalist and freelance magazine writer, she is a member of Romance Writers of America. Visit her online at www.romancewriter-girl.com

Thank you for the opportunity to tell you about Shore to Please, the latest book in my Gulf Shore contemporary romance series. Here’s what the book is about:

Tara Langley thought she’d found the love of her life, but he betrayed her with another woman. So she buried herself in her mission: convincing Gulf Shore Aquarium that dolphins and whales belong in the wild, not in artificial pools.

If Tara had her way, Paul “Flipper” O’Riley would lose the job he loves. Flipper is the head dolphin trainer, and the aquarium’s dolphins are his babies. While he’s open to having a real family one day, Tara is the last person he would choose to be his wife and the mother of his children.

These two should be sworn enemies, after all. He certainly swears at the sight of her. And his surfer-dude looks and lover-boy reputation aren’t exactly what Ms. Prim and Tidy had in mind when she pictured her ideal man.

But in the age-old way of opposites attracting, Tara and Flipper find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. There’s no possible way a relationship between them could work, right?

As the two try to find common ground amid the quicksand, Flipper and his coworkers become the targets of an increasingly more menacing campaign to force the aquarium to release the dolphins under its care. Will Gulf Shore Police Detective Joanna Tompkins catch the culprit before it’s too late?

And here’s an excerpt:

Paul “Flipper” O’Riley backed away from the note as if he expected it to somehow lunge at his throat. The outrage, disgust, and, yes, he’d admit it, fear he felt at reading the vile threats composed on the single page of common white printer paper had his stomach roiling ominously.

The letters of each word had been cut from what looked like a glossy magazine and glued on like a ransom note from a classic crime drama. If the message hadn’t been so loathsome, Flipper might’ve laughed at how cartoonish it looked.

But the warning had been nailed to the front door of the cottage he rented across the street from the beach, and that in itself represented an alarming development. It meant, of course, that the animal rights crusaders who’d been hounding Flipper’s employer now knew where he lived.

With a hand he fought to keep from shaking, he drew his cell phone out of the case attached to his belt, scrolled through his contacts, and pressed a familiar number. It rang several times before the person on the other end answered with an impatient huff.

“Jo?” Flipper asked. “Is that you?”

“No, it’s the queen of England. What do you want?”

Joanna Tompkins’ characteristic grumpiness and brusque manner usually amused him, but Flipper wasn’t in the mood for her tough-chick act right now.

“I’ve got something here at my place that you need to see. Can you come over?”

“How many times do I have to tell you, Fish Brain? Even if you show me yours, I’m not going to show you mine. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever.” She gave a chuckle that he didn’t appreciate, given the circumstances.

“Hilarious, but I’m serious. Another of those nasty notes came, and this one’s even more personal than the others.”

“Don’t touch it. I’ll be right over with a tech to dust for fingerprints.”

“I know the drill. I’m hanging up now and calling Kenshin.”

“See if he can meet me at your place. That’ll save me a trip to the aquarium.”

“Okay.”

“And if you’re still on your doorstep, haul your happy ass inside right now and lock the door until I get there.”

“Seriously?”

“Did you call me for help or not?”

“All right, all right. You’re the boss.”

“And don’t you forget it.”

Wary now, Flipper looked around before doing as she ordered. Then he called his boss, Kenshin Hamasaki, supervisor of marine mammals at Gulf Shore Aquarium, and filled him in. Kenshin promised to drop what he was doing and be right over.

Flipper yanked his hand through his hair, annoyed with himself for letting the situation unsettle him and pissed off at whoever was disrupting his life this way.

Who would’ve thought being a dolphin trainer carried such potential for danger?

As a girl, Annette dreamed of being an astronaut, but she stank at science and math and became motion sick riding the bus home from school. So she went with her second choice—newspaper journalist—and stuck with it for more than three decades.
After years of ignoring people who said, “You should write a book,” she finally did. And then she wrote a few more.
When she’s not working, Annette usually has her nose in someone else’s novel or her eyes glued to sports on TV. She has three totally spoiled pets, enjoys being the designated sightseer on her husband’s Harley, and volunteers at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home of diva dolphins Winter and Hope from the Dolphin Tale films.

Did you know that every 20 minutes a cat is exterminated in a kill shelter due to over-population? We must stop this barbaric act. Spay and neuter is the answer to unwanted litters. That is why I started Cat Haven. To spay and neuter feral cats in my community of Logan, Ohio. Please donate and share this link. http://www.gofundme.com/cathaven_Logan

Don’t forget that I will be awarding two people who comment their choice of one of my books. The choices are, Murder Most Foul, Wicked Intentions, Twisted Love, The Crime of the Century, Flagitious, Loves, Myths, and Monsters, or Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between. Its your choice.

Author Note: I have enjoyed art since childhood. My collection of poems, entitled, “Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between,” spanned 30 years of writing.

To start, please tell us about your book. This collection of 134 poems, provides a glimpse into my heart and mind. It was written with love and respect for others. Some poems were written in time of sorrow, others in joyous celebration. Life is like that.

Can you tell us a little about your recent works? My biography true crime anthology “Twisted Love” was released in June, by Black Rose Writing. Melange Books is the publisher for my detective/mystery “Flagitious” released in August.

What has surprised you most about the publishing business? How hard it is to find a publisher when you do not want to go the self-publishing route.

Do you have a particular goal that you wish to reach, in terms of writing? To write a best seller, and see my stories on television or the big screen. Just the ordinary hopes of many authors. LOL!

How do you keep your ideas fresh and imaginative? I like to write about subjects not often written about; the Mothman, the Chupacabra.

Are there any occupational hazards to being an author? Yes many I believe. Writers block, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, the fear of not writing. Each author is different, but I feel many have that fear of not having another book inside them.

If you could mentor a new writer, what would be your first piece of advice to them? Never give up. If you are passionate about writing, stay with it and you will become published.

What do you do to relax? I watch television. I canvas paint. I attend religious services; volunteer my time within the community. Spend time with relatives and my dog Jasmine.

If you could be any super hero, who would you be? A Jumper. A person who can think of a place and be there within seconds. Such as Hawaii, Europe, Australia, everywhere. Think of the money you’d save on plane fare.

What writing project are you working on now? I discussed with a screenwriter recently about turning my detective/mystery Murder Most Foul into a screen play. I am waiting for word from Melange Books for their opinion about that.

I have been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of my life. I am a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. I believe in family values and following your dreams. My original canvas paintings, can be found at: booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Hello friends, my campaign Cat Haven is dedicated to spaying and neutering feral cats in my community of Logan, Ohio. The overpopulation of stray cats is at its highest. I don’t want to see these creatures sent to kill shelters. Spay and neuter is the answer. I would really appreciate it if you would share this campaign on your social media for awareness. If you can’t donate, please share link: http://www.gofundme.com/cathaven_Logan

The residents of Rolling Hills, a hamlet in southeastern Ohio, were horrified when the dismembered bodies of two missing teens were pulled from the local river. Multiply suspects surfaced, but only one was railroaded, Richard Allan Lloyd, a known nudist and hothead.

What began as an evening stroll turned into what found only in horror films, and dubbed ‘the crime of the century’. 18 year old Babette, a voluptuous beauty contestant and horsewoman, and her 19 year old boyfriend Shane Shoemaker, a jealous and possessive unemployed printer, were last seen crossing a trestle bridge. Within fourteen days, their mutilated torsos and severed heads and limbs were unearthed, suggesting satanic cult activity.

With an investigation smeared with contradicting statements, and a botched crime scene, investigators built a flimsy case against Richard Lloyd. The three-week trial was based on police corruption and ineptitude, fairytale theories, and forensic mishandling.

This heinous crime shattered the sense of security for Rolling Hills, destroyed two families, and forever scarred the town. This story is a detailed account of finding justice for Babette and Shane, and of one man’s perseverance to gain his freedom from death row.

Excerpt: The next morning, Sandra woke with the belief her son was dead. She was now in a great panic. After checking in with Sandra, and realizing the kids had not returned or contacted her, Lt. Mowery took her written statement.

Sandra told the officer she rose at 7 a.m., on October 4, and noticed Annette waking up from the bedroom she shared with her daughter. She said Annette was preparing for classes at Tri-County Vocational School. Todd, she recalled, woke from his room and stayed home for the remainder of the morning after Annette left.

Chief Barron stayed within the city limits, checking area “hang outs” that Don had suggested. The officer reported finding no signs of the teens.

Lt. Mowery, armed with a new lead, drove to the nearby village of Nelsonville. First settled in 1814 by the Daniel Nelson family, the town was born from the coal industry and known as the “Little City of Black Diamonds.”

Once Lt. Mowery arrived at Tri-County, he discovered Annette had not attended any of her classes, after being reported missing.

What Instructor Dorothy Connors told the officer turned the investigation upside down and shed a new light on a seemingly non-alarming incident?

A petite redhead with green eyes, Dorothy was divorced with one grown daughter. She volunteered her free time at the local Pet Orphanage, a non-profit organization that placed abandoned or neglected dogs and cats within new homes.

She described Annette “a good student,” who at times had difficulties concentrating on her studies. Annette was determined to receive high grades, said Dorothy. She knew her smarts and her natural ability at mastering computer programming was her ticket out of Logan.

Todd on the other hand, seemed content in staying the “small-town” boy. His choir-boy manners was a hit with the ladies and especially with Sarah Johnson…in the beginning. Sarah would come to dislike Todd, as much as she disliked every boy Annette dated.

Dorothy described three letters Annette sent her depicting sexual and mental abuse instigated by Dale Johnston. The letters talked of Annette wanting to run away, but she was afraid her stepfather would find her and punish her. Dale Johnston threatened each boyfriend Annette had, and forced Annette to accompany him, alone, on camping trips, where he regularly seduced her, then “rewarded her with money or new clothes.”

Annette wrote of Sarah being aware of the attacks, but refused to acknowledge them, or stop them, claiming Sarah cared only about her marriage. The allegations of sexual abuse would be debated at length. Some found the rumors empty, since Dale and Sarah had the reputation of being “energizer bunnies,” when it came to sex. Some felt why would Dale want other women, when Sarah was “ready and willing”? Others felt the rumors were true, automatically believing the young voluptuous Annette, due to her age, and being raised by the likes of Sarah and Dale.

According to Dorothy, she advised Annette to move out of her stepfather’s trailer, or report the attacks, but unfortunately, “My advice came too late,” she said.

Hello friends, did you know that cats use their whiskers to judge whether or not they can fit through gaps. For example if they’re going through a gap in a fence, and their whiskers touch the sides, the cat knows that they won’t fit through the opening. Please donate and help lower unwanted litters in my community. Thank you and please share this link: http://www.gofundme.com/cathaven_Logan

The study of Lycanthropy, ( Greek word for ‘Lycan’ meaning wolf, and ‘thrope’ meaning man) is a rare condition in which a person has an uncontrollable desire to eat human flesh, or drink human blood. It is vastly scrutinized by psychiatrists.

That was not the case for my hero Detective Nick Difozzio, in “The Tarot Card Murders,” one tale in my crime/mystery anthology, “Flagitious”. When young and virginal homicide victims turn up with human bite marks and drained of blood, this ex-Navy man knew he had a gang of Lycanthropes in his town.

The perception of a link between mental illness and animalistic behavior has been traced throughout the history of folklore from many different countries.

Centuries ago, persons exhibiting bizarre symptoms were written off as the afflicted being melancholy. Nowadays, some doctors refer to Clinical lycanthropy as a psychotic episode caused by another condition such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or clinical depression.

In “The Tarot Card Murders,” Nick is on his own to prove this murderous gang exists. When the Chief of Police, orders him off the case, Nick is left with only his courage, wits, determination and a Voodoo Priestess, to solve these bizarre murders, and save his citizens.

Documented cases of lycanthrope include the afflicted suffering from the same 4 symptoms; delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech and behavior, such as barking or howling, walking on all fours, and scratching furniture.

In “The Tarot Card Murders”, the gang members are connected by their birthdates, of August 24. The birthstone Peridot, and the Horoscope sign Virgo. Members are kept in line with monetary rewards, intimidation, and threats of death, from the gangs Alfa male and female. The more Nick uncovers, the more personal and dangerous this case becomes.

If you enjoy reading about lust, lies and deceit, you will love “The Tarot Card Murders”.

Blurbs for “Flagitious” a four crime/mystery anthology

“Too Solve His Mother’s Murder”

After his Air Force career was interrupted by his mother’s untimely murder, Steven Moore, returned home. Met with a cold reception of lies, secrets, and threats, he is determined too find Wanda’s killer, even at the cost of his own life. Was Wanda a victim of the legendary Hatchet Man? Was this loving and devoted mother killed because of her shady past, or for her inheritance? Between finding the truth and falling in love, Steven stops at nothing, too solve his mother’s murder.

“The Other Couple’s Child”

Charlotte had it all. A loving and devoted husband. Supportive family and friends, and a house full of beautiful children. Everything was perfect for this Super Mom, until a medical procedure turns her life upside down, and spirals into a child abduction case. Time is running out. Will police arrive in time to save Charlotte and the other couple’s child?

“3381 Market Street”

Katherine Sims, a young widow working for a brokerage firm in a small southeastern town, is tired of the excuses concerning Charlie’s absence. She knows something terrible must have happened to her favorite nephew with the sad blue-eyes. After exposing the killer, Katherine’s life is turned upside down and she finds herself fighting for her life. Filled with maniacal suspects, a Satanic Cult, and danger around each corner, this story depicts one woman’s courage too avenge a child’s murder, while finding unexpected love.

“The Tarot Card Murders”

New Detective, and ex-navel man, twenty-six-year-old Nick Difozzio, returns to his small county determined too abolish crime. Not until death knocked on his door, did he know the face of evil. Will the decorated veteran destroy the Lycanthropes, or will he succumb to their murderess desires and become one of them? He took an oath too protect, honor, and uphold the law, but can he defy the lust, riches, and power offered, or are the ‘dark forces’ stronger than his will?

Excerpt from “The Tarot Card Murders”

The Scene: Detective Nick Difozzio has been called to another bizarre murder scene, located in the abandoned industrial section of town.

An abrupt silence you could cut with a knife filled the room. “Shape-shifters?” said one from the group. “You mean like a Yeti turns into a deer to avoid those who track it. Or the Lock Ness monster turns into a log.”

After Ted and the others poked fun at his fantastic idea, Nick laid it out, “Not exactly. But certain creatures are believed to have shape-shifting powers of one sort or another, and what other possibility is there to explain these bizarre murders?”

“Well, we could have a psychopath lurkin’ around. Or a nutty drifter or escaped convict,” Ted said. “But it doesn’t take a brain surgeon to understand that, if shape-shifters do exit, they would be very elusive creatures, nearly impossible to detect and capture. What does take a lot of imagination, is believing in shape-shifters.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right. I’ll see ya tomorrow,” Nick said. Once outside, he noticed the full moon, and wondered, who will die tonight? On reaching his vehicle, he discovered a surprise in his passenger seat.

“Denise, what’s going on?” he asked via the driver’s window.

With teeth white as snow, she said, “Well, sugar, I was thinkin’ about the last time you were at my house. You remember, when you cabbaged my safe contents so foolishly?”

With a chuckle, he nodded. “Honey, the only foolish thing I did that night was fail to realize the money in the safe was counterfeit. But I bet it’s all gone now.”

“And I bet you’re right,” she smiled. Just then, Denise’ partner in crime, twenty-two-year-old Wendy Goss zapped the lawman with a stun gun from behind, dropping him like a hot potato.

Jumping from the vehicle, Denise removed Nick’s gun and cell phone, placing them under the seat. Afterward, both women placed him in the backseat. Getting behind the steering wheel of Nick’s car, Denise drove his Mustang, while Wendy followed in her Firebird.

Halfway to the destination spot, Nick regained consciousness. With his gun gone, he played dead, hoping to find the gang’s hangout. Soon both vehicles stopped. Denise exited the Ford then helped Wendy search the Firebird’s trunk, for items needed for Nick’s demise.

“Someone better keep an eye on the cop,” Wendy said.

“Don’t worry, that pig’s out cold,” Denise said, finding rope. Peering out the back window, Nick realized he was on an abandoned farm. Searching for landmarks, he memorized a foreclosure sign reading Stonewall Realty.

Uncertain if the girls were armed, Nick made the decision to strike now or never. Disabling his car’s dome light, he cautiously retreated from the backseat. As quiet as a mouse, he snuck up on the chattering women foraging for items to gag and bind him.

As soon as the murdering beauties were finished gathering their supplies, Denise slammed the trunk shut. Immediately Nick punched her between her baby blues, knocking her to the ground before turning on Wendy.

Struggling with the yellow-haired lady, who, like her partner, was trained in Judo, Nick swapped blows with the tall slender gal and encountered a high degree of skill. Then, recovering, Denise attacked him from behind with a blow to his ribs, bringing him to his knees. Both women struck like tigers from all sides.

Doing his best to avoid their most deadly kicks, Nick used every device not nailed down as a weapon against the feisty felines. First, his leather belt with the sterling silver buckle, then, a stray piece of firewood left behind by the homeowners. Across the parking area, the trio fought. Nick matched his street skills against the trained martial artists as each one fought for their own reasons.

The gallant cop battled for his life and self-respect, while the women fought for control over the detective representing the authority they loathed. Or perhaps, Denise and Wendy’s desire for domination extended to include the entire county, not just the town, thought Nick. Whatever the reason, they’re formidable.

Bruised and bleeding, the women fought until Nick broke Wendy’s arm. Seizing the opportunity to get away, she escaped in her vehicle leaving her comrade helpless and easily overpowered.

“Get off me, you bastard!” Denise screamed as Nick slammed her to the ground, cuffing her.

“You’re under arrest.” Wiping the blood from his lip, he threw her into his vehicle then drove to the local hospital. On the way there, Nick phoned headquarters, “I got one of the blood members. We’re on our way to the ER.”

Author Bio:

JoAnne works for a nursing home in Ohio, and is the proud author of seven novels and canvas paints.

REVIEWS FOR FLAGITIOUS

PARANORMAL ROMANCE GUILD

5 Stars

Review: This anthology was wonderful. Each and every story was interesting and I read it in one day. Every story was different; the one thing they had in common was crime of one kind or another. I recommend this book, it was never boring.

Reviewer: Linda Tonis in January 2015

MANIC READERS

4.5 Stars

Review: I would definitely say Flagitious is filled with suspense, intrigue and violent situations that will keep readers guessing until they turn the last page.

Hello friends, did you know that cats are felines and they are the only known species that will twist their body to enable then to almost always land on their feet when they fall from a great height? Another fascinating fact about cats from JoAnne Myers. Please donate today and help lower unwanted feral litters. http://www.gofundme.com/cathaven_Logan

Before writing a word, take some time to jot down key story points. As you’re writing, the story will want to take on a life of its own. Having a handy reference of key points will help keep your story on track and you from pulling your hair out. A list of key points is also helpful when outlining the story plot. You may very well find that the story begins to unfold as you’re writing down the key points. If this happens…let it! Write down any ideas or details that come to you, they’ll come in handy later.

Some key points to consider are; what is the mystery? This is the underlying theme to the entire story so be as in-depth as possible (has there been a murder or a theft or a kidnapping? If so, how and where was it committed?). Hunt for the culprit. Every good story has at least one antagonist, but what steps must the hero or heroine take to find him/her? How will the villain evade the hero? How is the mystery solved? In mystery writing there are a lot of twists and turns. Write down your initial thoughts for plot twists, red herrings to throw the readers off the trail of the true villain, and of course the final stages of how the good guy will prevail…or does he? You need to decide whether or not the hero or the villain wins in the end. Many hero’s die trying to solve their case. Many are involved in physical altercations with other characters. You must decide how many altercations, the number of characters involved, and what weapons if any are used. It is not a good idea to only engage your characters with fist fighting. Throw in some knives, chains, falling from windows, or my favorite, a poisoning, and other nasty assaults.

Every great story has well rounded characters. We read fiction because we want to be entertained and develop a connection with the characters. Outlining items such as personality traits, physical features, and quirks can help bring your characters to life; a speech impediment, or limp, or a nervous twitch.

For the Protagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, does he/she have a family or pets, what is their driving goal for taking on this particular case? Is the hero a police officer, a person sworn to honesty, pride, and valor. Or is the good guy a private detective being paid to find a certain someone. Or your main character could be a parent or sibling searching for a missing loved one. For the Antagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, is there an underlying reason for being the antagonist? Perhaps this person is a career criminal. On the other hand, maybe he/she is a good person that suffered an unjust and turned to crime out of bitterness and despair. Then you have your support characters, who are the color of the story. They provide depth to the story whether good or bad. A support character could be as simple as a loud mouth hot dog vendor standing on a street corner or as in-depth as the villain’s partner in crime. In writing a mystery story, support characters can take on a life of their own with the reader, so make them interesting. Just because they are labeled support characters does not mean they are any less important than the main characters.

Next is the location of the story. When and where is the story set? These two key elements are what bring your story to life. Mystery story writing is a broad genre and could be set in any time period and in any place. When working with actual locations it is a good idea to do research on the location first. Readers want to feel as though they are there with the characters, so being able to accurately describe a location is vital. Time periods are no exception. If the story is set in 1940’s New Orleans, the reader will want to see their surroundings, not just be told the story is taking place in a speakeasy or church. Be descriptive!

A mystery story is not a story without a solid well thought out plot. Some things to consider when developing the story plot: What is the driving force of the mystery? To solve a murder, or rescue a kidnap victim? What does the villain do to thwart the hero? Does the villain get his goons on the hero? Is the hero being set up by the villain and now he is being hunted by police. What other obstacles get in the way of solving the mystery?

One of the most important elements of writing a mystery story is suspense. Giving away too much too soon will bore the reader. It is best if the suspense is sprinkled throughout the story; bring the mystery to light within the first few chapters, then as the story progresses add a clue here and there without revealing the outcome until the final chapter. Do not be afraid to add a “red herring” or false clue, within the stories context. Readers love nothing better than to think they have everything figured out only to find in the end they were mistaken the entire time.

The final few chapters of the story should hold the climax of the conflict and resolution between the hero and villain, including how all of the clues scattered throughout the story cumulatively solves the mystery. A good conclusion gives the reader a sense of closure in finding out how the hero solved the mystery. Remember that not all mysteries have to be completely solved or have a “happy” ending. If you are writing a series of stories, the villain may get away at the end of story #1 with the hero using clues from story #1 to track down the villain in story #2. In mystery story writing, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Author News: Murder Most Foul has been transformed into a screenplay so that I may offer it to production companies for a film project. Wish me luck.

Excerpt:

Unbeknown to the killer, his actions set off a chain of events that turned Pleasant Valley upside down, terrified some into moving elsewhere, and left everyone asking, “Why?”

Someone not living in the county, but also disturbed by the carnage was F.B.I Special Agent Walker Harmon, from Columbus. The type person capable of committing such savagery weighed heavily on the mind of the thirty-four year old bachelor who promptly contacted Sheriff Brown.

“What the hell is goin’ on? What could you guys from Columbus have to say about Terry Jenkins?” Sheriff Brown asked angrily.

“Sheriff, I received a copy of the psychological profile performed by a State University Criminologist concerning the murders. The profile exactly matches Terry Jenkins.”

Snapping at the Federal Agent, the sheriff said. “I also received that psychological profile and, in my opinion, it fits a lot of people in this hick town, most especially Vernon James. I have my men on the case, and we’re gettin’ closer to solvin’ this crime.”

“Sheriff Brown!” Harmon beseeched. “We must join forces. Can you divulge the caliber of the bullets killing the victims?”

“No, I can not!” he said. “That information is privileged to only case personnel. I will not divulge it to anyone, not even a big city detective like you.” He then abruptly hung up on the agent.

Reviews for “Murder Most Foul”

5 ***** BTS Magazine-December 2013 Issue 17- Reviewer Marie Haney

Review: The author recreates the scenes with dramatic fashion, adding characters that are so realistic; it feels like you’re living the moment right along with them. She is a wonderful storyteller, paying attention to every intricate detail and leaving you hanging onto every word. If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, this book will definitely not disappoint!

Goodreads author James gives “Murder Most Foul” 5***** on March 2013

Review: What can I say about this book? I absolutely loved it. It is one of those books that when you start it is very hard to put down. Everything is very descriptive and exciting it will always keep your interest peaked for more. Maybe the only way it could be better for me is reading it aloud to others around a campfire. It is a wonderfull read. Well done JoAnne Myers, well done.

Hello, did you know that in ancient Egypt cats were held in high esteem? The punishment for mistreating a cat was to be torn in quarters by horses. The domestic cat is not really “domesticated” they simply choose to live with us. Cats are the perfect hunter/carnivore as far as land animals go, the only other more perfect hunter on the planet lives in oceans and is the shark. Please donate and help lower unwanted feline litters. Please share this link: http://www.gofundme.com/cathaven_Logan

Hello and thank you for stopping by to check out my posts and giveaways. I received 4 and 5 Star reviews for “Wicked Intentions”. I will be awarding two lucky people who comment a paperback or PDF of their choice of one of my 7 books. Plese enjoy.

WRITING PARANORMAL-by JoAnne Myers

When it comes to fiction writing, almost anything goes. That is why I love writing paranormal and fantasy stories. The author can go completely over the edge and make something unbelievable seem believable. When it comes to ghost stories, I get a lot of my inspiration from real life experiences. Not necessarily my own either. I watch television programs that partake of the supernatural and paranormal flare. Programs from ordinary people who claim they experienced either an afterlife experience, or a haunting.

For my ghost stories, I get a lot of my inspiration from real life experiences. Not necessarily my own, either. I watch television programs with the supernatural and paranormal flare; documentaries from ordinary people who claim they experienced either an afterlife experience, or a haunting.

Some of the stories from my anthology, Wicked Intentions, are based on actual hauntings. In The Legend of Lake Manor, I placed my young psychic, Cassandra Lopez, in a haunted mansion I fashioned on my knowledge of a three-story mansion in my hometown and information from television about a restaurant/bar in Ohio, supposedly ruled by demons so violent that the local police are constantly closing it down.

A television documentary about a young mother plagued by ghost sightings since childhood, inspired The Haunting of Barb Marie and her gift/curse.

And The Apartment, in which my newlyweds, Bill and Gayle, are plagued by sightings of evil ghosts that threaten their marriage and theirs lives, originated from a real apartment haunted by the ghosts of two homosexual lovers who died violently. The legend says no tenant is able to stay there until the spirits are chased off by a paranormal investigation team.

On the Discovery Channel, is where I got the idea for Summer Wind. I learned of the colonial explorer Jonathon Carver who lived during the 1700s and whose ghost is believed to be haunting the Summerwind estate, built in the early 20th century. Carver’s ghost is, supposedly, searching the house’s foundations for deeds to a vast tract of land (10,000 square miles) given to him by Sioux Indian chiefs as a reward for the peace treaty he created between two warring tribes. In my Summer Wind, 29 year-old Ginger is mysteriously drawn to the old mansion, and like the many owners of the real mansion, the haunting had a negative and profound effect on Ginger and her family.

Another investigative program concerned one sister’s psychic premonitions about her twin’s murder. This led to my story, Blood Ties, and my heroine, Audra Roper’s dark, disturbing visions of her sister’s disappearance and the roller coaster of risks, heartbreak, and intrigue that followed.

Dark Visions came from reading a newspaper story while sitting in a diner. A young woman began having visions of her father’s disappearance that was actually his murder from years earlier. So, my Carrie Reynolds starts having nightmares on her twenty-sixth birthday and believes these ‘dark visions’ can solve the twenty year disappearance of her father.

I set my murder mystery, The Truth Behind the Lies, on Norfolk Island after following a three year long murder investigation on that island from 2003. In my story, Federal Police Inspector Ian Christian faces attacks, more murders and ghostly occurrences, and the killer is closer than anyone realizes.

So, the next time you get Writer’s Block, or need a new idea, try switching on the television, open a newspaper, delve into history or simply look and listen. You will find something to stimulate your muse.

Blurbs for “Wicked Intentions” 7 bone chilling paranormal tales

BLOOD TIES

After the mysterious disappearance of twenty-six year old wife and mother Lisa Smalley, her twin, Audra Roper, begins having dark and disturbing visions of Lisa’s disappearance. Trying to survive while looking for Lisa, Audra’s life becomes a roller coaster of risks, heartbreak, and intrigue.

THE HAUNTING OF BARB MARIE

Even as a child, Barb Marie saw dead people. This took an unhealthy toil on her throughout her childhood and young adulthood.

SUMMER WIND

When twenty-nine year old Ginger discovers the old mansion Summer Wind, she is mysteriously drawn to it. . Immediately, the haunting’s have a negative and profound effect on the family.

THE TRUTH BEHIND THE LIES-laying the Norfolk ghost to rest

Solving the brutal murder of American born Ruthie Geil becomes a gauntlet of attacks and more murders for Federal Police Inspector Ian Christian. Between the victims family, ex-lovers, and ghostly occurrences on Norfolk Island, the killer is closer than anyone realizes.

THE LEGEND OF LAKE MANOR

For the young psychic Cassandra Lopez, coming to the infamous and haunted mansion Lake Manor, was more like a mission.

THE APARTMENT

When young newlyweds Bill and Gayle move into their new apartment, their lives are plagued with sightings of evil ghosts that threaten their marriage and lives.

DARK VISIONS

When Carrie Reynold’s starts having nightmares on her twenty-sixth birthday, she believes her “dark visions” can solve the twenty year disappearance of her father.

Excerpt from “Dark Visions”

Mark was gone from Carrie’s bed when she awoke. In his place lay a
hand-written love note decorated with flowers and hearts. “Mark, you’re quite the artist,” she said to the note with a deep satisfied smile. Checking the clock she found she had less than thirty minutes to shower, dress and get to
church…and be there on time. Anyone arriving late had to sit in back of the
church, and Carrie was expected to sit with her mother.

She made it to the church with one minute to spare and dutifully kissing
her mother’s cheek, sat with her in the fourth row. “I didn’t think you’d make
it,” whispered Myra, noticing her daughter’s glowing appearance as did others, as evidenced by smiles and wiggling eyebrows. “So, when’s the wedding?”

Carrie stopped her last minute primping and whispered. “Does it show?”

“You got ‘I had sex last night’ written all over your pretty face.”

“He’s the one, Mother. I know it.”

“That’s what I said when I met your daddy…and we know how that
ended.”

“Father was morally and emotionally weak. Mark is not.”

“I may not know everything about men, but one thing I do know is this, ‘If
a man can get the milk for free, why buy the cow?’”

“That’s a horrible presumption to make about Mark.”

“So…when’s the wedding?”

Carrie started to answer, but the organist’s Prelude interrupted. Angry with
her mom and her attitude toward men in general and Mark in particular, she
made a quick exit. Once outside the church, she raced sobbing to her car and
peeled out of the parking lot. She immediately called Mark.

Reviews for Wicked Intentions

1st Review

5***** on May 2014 by Linda Tonis Member of the Paranormal Romance Review Team

Review: “This was a very interesting collection of short stories and all had a touch of the paranormal. Overall, this is a book well worth reading.”

2nd Review

4**** by Tenaya Jacob 2015

Review: “Good ghoulish bedtime stories. Wicked Intentions is a collection of short mysterious tales about love gone wrong and restless souls of the spirit world trespassing in the land of the living. Interesting stories to keep you up at night reading.”

Author Bio:
JoAnne has been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of her life. Besides having several novels under her belt, JoAnne canvas paints. When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, JoAnne spends time with relatives, and volunteers her time within the community. JoAnne is a member of several writing clubs. JoAnne believes in family values and following your dreams. JoAnne’s original canvas paintings, can be found at:

When it comes to fiction writing, almost anything goes. That is why I love writing paranormal and fantasy stories. The author can go completely over the edge and make something unbelievable seem believable. When it comes to ghost stories, I get a lot of my inspiration from real life experiences. Not necessarily my own either. I watch television programs that partake of the supernatural and paranormal flare. Programs from ordinary people who claim they experienced either an afterlife experience, or a haunting.

For my ghost stories, I get a lot of my inspiration from real life experiences. Not necessarily my own, either. I watch television programs with the supernatural and paranormal flare; documentaries from ordinary people who claim they experienced either an afterlife experience, or a haunting.

Some of the stories from my anthology, Wicked Intentions, are based on actual hauntings. In The Legend of Lake Manor, I placed my young psychic, Cassandra Lopez, in a haunted mansion I fashioned on my knowledge of a three-story mansion in my hometown and information from television about a restaurant/bar in Ohio, supposedly ruled by demons so violent that the local police are constantly closing it down.

A television documentary about a young mother plagued by ghost sightings since childhood, inspired The Haunting of Barb Marie and her gift/curse.

And The Apartment, in which my newlyweds, Bill and Gayle, are plagued by sightings of evil ghosts that threaten their marriage and theirs lives, originated from a real apartment haunted by the ghosts of two homosexual lovers who died violently. The legend says no tenant is able to stay there until the spirits are chased off by a paranormal investigation team.

On the Discovery Channel, is where I got the idea for Summer Wind. I learned of the colonial explorer Jonathon Carver who lived during the 1700s and whose ghost is believed to be haunting the Summerwind estate, built in the early 20th century. Carver’s ghost is, supposedly, searching the house’s foundations for deeds to a vast tract of land (10,000 square miles) given to him by Sioux Indian chiefs as a reward for the peace treaty he created between two warring tribes. In my Summer Wind, 29 year-old Ginger is mysteriously drawn to the old mansion, and like the many owners of the real mansion, the haunting had a negative and profound effect on Ginger and her family.

Another investigative program concerned one sister’s psychic premonitions about her twin’s murder. This led to my story, Blood Ties, and my heroine, Audra Roper’s dark, disturbing visions of her sister’s disappearance and the roller coaster of risks, heartbreak, and intrigue that followed.

Dark Visions came from reading a newspaper story while sitting in a diner. A young woman began having visions of her father’s disappearance that was actually his murder from years earlier. So, my Carrie Reynolds starts having nightmares on her twenty-sixth birthday and believes these ‘dark visions’ can solve the twenty year disappearance of her father.

I set my murder mystery, The Truth Behind the Lies, on Norfolk Island after following a three year long murder investigation on that island from 2003. In my story, Federal Police Inspector Ian Christian faces attacks, more murders and ghostly occurrences, and the killer is closer than anyone realizes.

So, the next time you get Writer’s Block, or need a new idea, try switching on the television, open a newspaper, delve into history or simply look and listen. You will find something to stimulate your muse.

Blurbs for “Wicked Intentions” 7 bone chilling paranormal tales

BLOOD TIES

After the mysterious disappearance of twenty-six year old wife and mother Lisa Smalley, her twin, Audra Roper, begins having dark and disturbing visions of Lisa’s disappearance. Trying to survive while looking for Lisa, Audra’s life becomes a roller coaster of risks, heartbreak, and intrigue.

THE HAUNTING OF BARB MARIE

Even as a child, Barb Marie saw dead people. This took an unhealthy toil on her throughout her childhood and young adulthood.

SUMMER WIND

When twenty-nine year old Ginger discovers the old mansion Summer Wind, she is mysteriously drawn to it. . Immediately, the haunting’s have a negative and profound effect on the family.

THE TRUTH BEHIND THE LIES-laying the Norfolk ghost to rest

Solving the brutal murder of American born Ruthie Geil becomes a gauntlet of attacks and more murders for Federal Police Inspector Ian Christian. Between the victims family, ex-lovers, and ghostly occurrences on Norfolk Island, the killer is closer than anyone realizes.

THE LEGEND OF LAKE MANOR

For the young psychic Cassandra Lopez, coming to the infamous and haunted mansion Lake Manor, was more like a mission.

THE APARTMENT

When young newlyweds Bill and Gayle move into their new apartment, their lives are plagued with sightings of evil ghosts that threaten their marriage and lives.

DARK VISIONS

When Carrie Reynold’s starts having nightmares on her twenty-sixth birthday, she believes her “dark visions” can solve the twenty year disappearance of her father.

Excerpt from “Dark Visions”

Mark was gone from Carrie’s bed when she awoke. In his place lay a
hand-written love note decorated with flowers and hearts. “Mark, you’re quite the artist,” she said to the note with a deep satisfied smile. Checking the clock she found she had less than thirty minutes to shower, dress and get to
church…and be there on time. Anyone arriving late had to sit in back of the
church, and Carrie was expected to sit with her mother.

She made it to the church with one minute to spare and dutifully kissing
her mother’s cheek, sat with her in the fourth row. “I didn’t think you’d make
it,” whispered Myra, noticing her daughter’s glowing appearance as did others, as evidenced by smiles and wiggling eyebrows. “So, when’s the wedding?”

Carrie stopped her last minute primping and whispered. “Does it show?”

“You got ‘I had sex last night’ written all over your pretty face.”

“He’s the one, Mother. I know it.”

“That’s what I said when I met your daddy…and we know how that
ended.”

“Father was morally and emotionally weak. Mark is not.”

“I may not know everything about men, but one thing I do know is this, ‘If
a man can get the milk for free, why buy the cow?’”

“That’s a horrible presumption to make about Mark.”

“So…when’s the wedding?”

Carrie started to answer, but the organist’s Prelude interrupted. Angry with
her mom and her attitude toward men in general and Mark in particular, she
made a quick exit. Once outside the church, she raced sobbing to her car and
peeled out of the parking lot. She immediately called Mark.

Reviews for Wicked Intentions

1st Review

5***** on May 2014 by Linda Tonis Member of the Paranormal Romance Review Team

Review: “This was a very interesting collection of short stories and all had a touch of the paranormal. Overall, this is a book well worth reading.”

2nd Review

4**** by Tenaya Jacob 2015

Review: “Good ghoulish bedtime stories. Wicked Intentions is a collection of short mysterious tales about love gone wrong and restless souls of the spirit world trespassing in the land of the living. Interesting stories to keep you up at night reading.”

Author Bio:
JoAnne has been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of her life. Besides having several novels under her belt, JoAnne canvas paints. When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, JoAnne spends time with relatives, and volunteers her time within the community. JoAnne is a member of several writing clubs. JoAnne believes in family values and following your dreams. JoAnne’s original canvas paintings, can be found at:

The best thing about self-publishing is that you are guaranteed to be published, no matter what type book you choose to write. Traditional publishers often look for something not yet written about, or seldom written about; such as true life alien abductions, or what Earth might be like in the year 4000, if humans last that long.

Self-publishing allows the author more leeway with subject matter. The author can tell it like it is; unlike traditional publishers who generally follow a code of conduct, for the fear of treading on someone’s toes. Traditional publishers always have that fear of being sued for libel, whereas self-publishers tend to not care what others think.

With self publishing every detail is up to the author. From hiring a professional editor if the self publishing author is not prolific in the English language. Editing is expensive, and every book, even self publishing needs some editing to help polish the final product. Self-publishing does offer editing and marketing services, but for an additional price, that can be expensive. All that work is taken care of by a traditional publisher, which means less headaches and work for the author.

When it comes to book covers, self-publishing companies usually give the author a selection of artwork to choose from. Some of this artwork is free, but some usually cost a few dollars. The free artwork is seldom great, and might not coincide with the books material. For paid artwork at self-publishing companies, the artwork is upgraded and more pleasing to the eye, but is an extra cost, which might for some self-publishers, mean an extra dent in their pocketbooks. Traditional publishers have their own art department, which means the author is guaranteed a terrific book cover, which is included in the contract. Both self-publishing and traditional publishing companies, though, usually allow the author to use their own artwork if the author chooses too, especially if the book is about the author’s family, pet, friends, or profession. Using personal artwork adds a touch of personification and genuine sincerity to the book; which is always a good selling point.

When it comes to any type of artwork, whether it be books, jewelry, or candles, artwork is usually a hard product to sell. If it were easy, all artists and authors would be wealthy.

With many traditional publishing houses, they get an average of 60% of sales, and the author is left with 40%. I understand Lulu allows 80% of the royalties to go to the author, and Amazon allows 70%, but that percentage is only applicable for books sold to certain countries outside of the U.S., such as Brazil, Japan, Mexico, and India, and only for titles enrolled in KDP Select. This in reality, means that the author receives an average 35% of the sales, and Amazon gets the other 65%.

A author can struggle with locating a traditional publishing company for many reasons. They have written a book that only they are interested in; such as their family history. I don’t believe most would be interested in reading about someone else’s family tree, unless it is as brilliant as the book Roots, was. If a author is struggling with locating a traditional publishing company, than self-publishing is for them. I for one believe that if a writer has written a book, they should continue seeking out the traditional publishing company. This only applies if their book is polished and ready for sale. If a book has many graphical errors, it will not be taken seriously by a traditional publisher. Getting away with graphical errors in a self-published book is possible, but it would be disappointing and frustrating to the reader. Whether the book is self-published or traditionally published, the final product should be free of errors, and entertaining, and pleasing to the eye. In my opinion, when it comes to Lulu versus Amazon, Amazon bites the dust. Good luck.

Blurbs for “Loves, Myths and Monsters” 11 tales of fantasy, intrigue, and mystery, entwined within the human world

Welcome To Anna Little does 17 year old Zoe, realize, but the Chupracabra followed her to Ohio from South America. What happens next is a series of chilling mysteries, and unsuspecting friendships and love.

The Hunter’s Bride When all game warden Daren Abram, had to worry about was which lucky lady to woo, he comes to the realization that his town is being stalked by the reincarnation of the town’s legend.

Moon People For teenage mermaid Constance, coming to the quaint seaside town of Willowick, is heavenly, until she falls for mortal boy Drake. For the town to survive, Constance is forced to choose between her kind and the boy and town she loves.

The Pack When young Lycan Sonny Red Blanket, a Shawnee Indian falls for mortal girl Drenda Way, he must save her from his fellow Lycan’s and stop a werewolf uprising.

The Bidding Apiologist 34-year-old Duncan McPherson goes to Circleville, Ohio, to investigate a series of mysterious bee attacks. What is uncovered proves to be more dark and sinister then anyone imaged.

The Agreement Incarcerated in the abandoned Roseville jail, is the last thing rich college student and speeder Brice Conrad, needs. With an “agreement” between the town and a permanent demonic “guest”, only the unfortunate ones know the truth, but do not live to tell.

For The Love Of Ginnie Handsome bachelor and Scientist Alex Anderson from the thirtieth century, returns to the Civil War with time serum to save his beloved Ginnie Wade from a snipers bullet, while finding a roller coaster ride of joy and perils.

Is It Only A Myth? When 32-year-old Vinton County Sheriff, James “Jim” Connors, discovers he has a Mothman hunting in his county, he stops at nothing to save his citizens.

The Proposition The rough and ready cowboy John Queenie gets the shock of his life, when the ad to break a “wild filly” turns out to be a fiery Quaker girl named Tess. This is a story proving love conquers all.

The House On Shady Lane A seemingly loving family turns out to be serial killers in 1873.

Love’s Curse When an Egypt love curse scroll is stolen from a Dean’s office, persons begin dying in bizarre and grisly ways, with the college’s mascot a Viking King statue jokingly blamed for it.

Excerpt from “Is It Only A Myth?”

Quietly, Jim led the way into the large, damp, dark opening with Page watching their rear. The smell of ammonia issued strongly from the tunnel.

Slowly they advanced toward the creature, hugging the side walls. “Ah! It’s sitting on its eggs. This may be our sole chance to prove the Mothman exists,” Page said. “Please let me keep one of the eggs.”

“We’ve been through this already, Page, and the answer is still no!”

“Listen, Jim,” she whispered. “I know a man who will pay a mighty high price for a live specimen. We can share the money since my team’s dead.”

Jim stopped and stared at the woman he had already fallen in love with, then asked, “You’re not really a scientist, are you?”

“Yes, I am, but I am not the type I once was.”

“So you lied about your credentials?” Jim began fuming.

“I . . .”

“Who the hell are you, really?”

“The others and I were more fortune hunters than true cryptozoologists.”

JoAnne has been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of her life. Besides having several novels under her belt, JoAnne canvas paints. When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, JoAnne spends time with relatives, and volunteers her time within the community. JoAnne is a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. JoAnne believes in family values and following your dreams. JoAnne’s original canvas paintings, can be found at: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Hello friends, did you know that cats are survivors? If there were no humans left on earth, the probability of cats surviving on their own is very great. Housecats that are abandoned or lost will adapt very quickly to the outdoors and be able to hunt their own food. Thank you and please share this link: http://www.gofundme.com/cathaven_Logan

Tagline: It’s a chilling reality that homicide investigators know all too well: the last face most murder victims see is not that of a stranger, but of someone familiar.

Blurbs for “Twisted Love” 12 cases of love gone bad

The End of Autumn-To keep from paying child support for his three children, Rodney Williams, plots with his parents to kidnap his estranged wife, 25-year old Autumn, in broad daylight. This 2011 crime shocked the small community of Logan, Ohio.

Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing-In 2011, 53 year old Russell Strothers, and his teenage accomplice find their victims through Craigslist and strike with calculating and deadly force.

A Senseless Killing-This 2010 case uncovers how a 40 year old likable barmaid was lured to her death after she rejects her young admirers sexual advances.

The Death of Innocence-This 2011 murder case involved 4 year old Marcie Willis, and her evil stepmother 25 year old Cheryl, from the small bedroom community of The Plains, Ohio.

The Possession-When 29-year-old Valerie Harris severs the penis of her sexually abusive father, it makes national news in 2007.

Home Town Hero-When deaf students are murdered in the prestigious Rose Brick College of the Deaf in 2008, everyone is shocked when discovering the killer is one of their own.

Horrible Sin-When 42 year old Fortune Teller Sally Vu and her 21-year-old daughter Veronica are discovered murdered and physically desecrated, in 2001, evidence points to revenge and a spell gone wrong.

All For the Family-In 2003, as a way to erase her 22-year-old husbands criminal past, 19 year old Molly Abbott devises a ghoulish and desperate strategy.

Thicker Than Water?-When 52 year old Kim Michaels is found dismembered inside her burned out home in 1996, officers find the crime more confusing than a jig saw puzzle.

Mail Order Murder-The last thing the beautiful Russian mail order bride Anna dreamed of in 2001, was being murdered by her controlling and older American husband.

Where’s Christopher?-When four year old Christopher Ellis goes missing, numerous excuses and an odd odor emanating from the backyard in 1991, raises eyebrows.

Author Bio:

I live in southeastern Ohio, and work for a nursing home. Besides having 7 novels under my belt, I canvas paint. When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, I spend time with relatives, and volunteer my time within the community. I am a member of the several writing groups, and I believe in family values and following your dreams. My original canvas paintings, can be found at: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Hello friends, did you know that cats were the last domestic animal to be tamed in history – long after dogs and horses and it was done by the ancient Egyptians who worshipped them as gods, perhaps because of their rodent control abilities, something that was a big problem in ancient times. I hope you enjoy my tid bits about cats. Please donate and help lower unwanted litters in my community. Thank you and please share this link: http://www.gofundme.com/cathaven_Logan

In 2010, myself and three writer friends—Amanda McCabe, Kathy L Wheeler, and Krysta Scott—began meeting each Friday evening for Martinis and various other libations at the Martini Lounge in Edmond, Oklahoma. In time, we came to dub our gatherings the ‘Martini Club.’ During one of these get-togethers, an idea was tossed around to write stories centered around a Martini Lounge-like establishment. The idea blossomed from there, and the ‘Martini Club 4’ series was born.

Each of us have written our own, stand-alone novella, but the girls from each are friends, and they interact in one another’s stories. This first series is set in the 1920’s, and the next will be set in the 40’s.

My BAFF’s (Best Author Friends Forever) and I had a blast brainstorming and creating the MC4 Vintage Historical Romances over drinks and during a few out of town retreats (over drinks, as well ).

Step back into the days of prohibition, gangsters, and speakeasies with the Martini Club 4 Series – The 1920’s, now available in ebook individually, or ALL FOUR stories can be purchased in print.

**** The 4 ebooks are currently ON SALE for only 99¢ each!!!

About the Books:

Four young English women discover friendship, romance, and danger in 1920’s New York City…

Jessica: An aristocratic reporter with a penchant for trouble, she encounters sexy, mysterious Frank Markov, owner of an elegant new speakeasy and a man with secrets she’s dying to uncover. ~ Rebellious by Amanda McCabe

Eliza: She fled England in pursuit of a better life, but her illusions are shattered when she falls prey to a scoundrel who draws her into a life of prostitution. When she meets Vince Taggart, a former boxer in search of his missing friend, she finds hope and the promise of love. ~ Ruined by Alicia Dean

Margaret: Her impulsive nature lands her face-to-face with gangsters and bootleggers. Even more disarming is her undeniable attraction to the enigmatic Harry Dempsey. ~ Reckless by Kathy L Wheeler

Charlotte: Her dreams of owning her own bakery crumble when blackmail and murder land at her feet. Is the dashing detective her ruin or her salvation? ~ Runaway by Krysta Scott

Award-winning, multi-published author Alicia Dean began writing stories as a child. At age 11, she wrote her first ever romance (featuring a hero who looked just like Elvis Presley, and who happened to share the name of Elvis’ character in the movie, Tickle Me), and she still has the tattered, pencil-written copy. Alicia is from Moore, Oklahoma and now lives in Edmond. She has three grown children and a huge network of supportive friends and family. She writes mostly contemporary suspense and paranormal, but has also written in other genres, including a few vintage historicals. She is a freelance editor in addition to being an editor for The Wild Rose Press.
Other than reading and writing, her passions are Elvis Presley, MLB, NFL (she usually works in a mention of one or all three into her stories) and watching her favorite televisions shows like Vampire Diaries, Justified, Sons of Anarchy, Haven, New Girl, The Mindy Project, and Dexter (even though it has sadly ended, she will forever be a fan). Some of her favorite authors are Michael Connelly, Dennis Lehane, Lee Child, Lisa Gardner, Sharon Sala, Jordan Dane, Ridley Pearson, Joseph Finder, and Jonathan Kellerman…to name a few.

I am super excited to be here today! I would like to talk to you about my latest release Designated Alpha and how I switched the gender roles by having a strong Alpha female. Yes, you read that right… our heroine is the Alpha and she’s the one in charge.

When I first got involved with Totally Bound’s imprint What’s her Secret? I knew that I wanted my female to be one saving people and the one in charge. Oh, she still has her insecurities and her story starts with a mistake she made that changed the rest of her life but that’s all part of being human. She made the decision to have a one night stand for the first time in her life. She was lonely, sad, and just needed the touch of someone for a short time. That choice was one that she can never take back. She has to live with what happened that night because she went home with a stranger. There are really just two options, give in and let the misery surround her or live her life the best way she can. What would you do?

Piper decides to fight. She fought and killed the evil monster who turned her into what she is now. She’s searched for a place she could be safe—and she finally found a home and life with Jace, so she chose to stay. Her past has made her the person she is today. That sounds like a strong woman to me! She might not always have the answers but the urge to protect those around her is strong. As a woman reading this book, I think you will be able to relate very well to her. If you take out the fact that she was turned into a werewolf, she could be any one of us.

What good story would be complete without a cast of hot, sexy, and fun guys around our heroine? Piper has her hands full with the men in this book. First there is her lover, Jace. The ex special force’s solider that pushes her to accept her differences and supports her in every obstacle she comes up against. Then we have Mitch, the best friend of Jace, and the second person that Piper’s ever revealed her true shifter nature to. Mitch is a sexy, tattooed solider who loves to cook and can’t keep himself out of trouble. Next, we have the heart of the group—Bobby, he is lost and alone but the one thing that he and Piper share could be the start of something wonderful. Bobby is the character who pushes Piper’s Alpha urges to the surface. He needs her protection and she intends to give him it. Lastly, we have our bad guy, Vince wants the power that Piper has and he doesn’t care who he has to hurt to get it.

This book takes action to a whole new level! By the time we think we have it all figured out a curve ball is thrown and more lives change. In the end, Piper is faced with making a decision that will affect how she and Jace live as a couple. She can accept the gift of her own pack and finally become complete or give into her fear and run again.

If this sounds like your type of tea—or coffee for us addicts—I hope you’ll give Designated Alpha a try! Check out the excerpt below and I hope you enjoy!

Crissy Smith

What’s her Secret Excerpt:

The scent of salt water hung heavy in the air as the full moon lightened the dark crashing waves. Piper Maxwell stepped from the dense woods surrounding the area and onto the cool sand of the beach. Her paws made deep impressions as she climbed down the small sandbank.

Her heart pumped a frantic tempo while her body trembled in anticipation. She’d spent a couple of hours playing alone and letting her wolf enjoy freedom. Now she would hunt down a completely different kind of prey from the rabbit she’d chased only an hour before.

Though his time she had no intention of hunting the prey for dinner.

She caught a faint trace on the light breeze of someone close and lifted her head. She breathed deeply, her nose twitching, trying to determine the direction of the smell.

There, to the right.

Piper leaped down the rest of the incline and silently stalked toward her reward.

Even in her shifted form she kept her human intelligence. However, the more time she spent in her other form, the more she could feel the wolf’s instincts strengthen. She didn’t know whether it was normal for her to feel her wolf getting stronger. There was no one that she could ask the hundreds of questions she had.

The only connection she had with another shifter was the man who had turned her into what she was. After running for years, six months ago Joe had found her, and she’d had to kill him to protect herself and Jace.

If she hadn’t ended Joe, he would have killed her, Jace and anyone else who had gotten in his way. Still, although she knew she’d done the right thing, she had bad nights when she remembered her teeth sinking into Joe’s flesh. Sometimes the nightmares were so realistic that she almost believed he was haunting her.

She stumbled over a broken log and that jolt brought her attention back to the present. She wouldn’t let the memory of Joe ruin her night. She refused to go back and relive it again. While the human part of her was still mortified about what she’d done, the wolf was proud. Piper had protected her mate.

Satisfaction that she could—and did—defend her lover, had her wolf side gloating inside.

Piper pushed away the feeling by mentally blocking the thought. It had taken a lot of time for her to realize that she was able to do that.

To get control of herself once again, Piper shook her body and raced down to the shore. Her wolf enjoyed the exercise and she could use it to tire her animal out.

She knew she was going in the right direction by small catches of a familiar scent. Several yards down from where she’d started she slowed, darting a look around.

Panting, she stopped and listened.

She had no idea what her face would have looked like right then but she was smiling. The aroma of her quarry was close and she could even pick up the faint crackle from a fire.

She followed the trail up the beach farther back away from the water. The sand beneath her paws was soft and helped her move in silence. She was coming up from the south, down-wind, knowing the element of surprise was on her side. He had his back to her as he crouched over the fire poking at it with a stick.

Piper hunkered down and waited.

There was no chance that she would ever hurt this man. Jace Anderson was her mate. The word floated around in her mind and it was her wolf side that liked that word.

As a human she loved Jace as her partner. As a wolf she ached to claim him, for everyone else in the world to know that he belonged to her.

For several months she’d struggled to keep the animal instinct from doing just that. To claim Jace, she would have to bite him, and that scared her. She had no idea what consequences would come from her sinking her teeth into his flesh.

She would not let Jace be changed the way she’d been.

He straightened and tossed the stick in his hand away. Piper admired his strong, broad back. She loved to run her hands and tongue over his bulging muscles. Squirming, she bit down on her tongue to hold in the sound of her need that wanted to escape.

Piper was impatient for the man to turn toward her so that she could see his face. Considering her options, she came up with an idea. She thumped her tail against the log to her side in three quick beats before she froze again.

He turned, his gaze roaming around the fallen logs and darkness. She didn’t have long before he would spot her. The muscles in her legs bunched as she prepared herself. Just as he rotated to face her fully, she pounced.

In a well-practiced move, she leaped at his chest, knocking him back. His arms closed around her as the fell to the ground. She let out a rumble as he buried his hands in her fur and held her tight. She loomed over him, running her long, rough tongue over his cheek.

“Okay,” he said with a laugh and pushed her head to the side. “You got me.”

Pleased, she climbed off him so he could sit up. Settling next to him, she rested her chin on his leg.

“How was your run, baby?”

Jace liked to talk to her, even if she couldn’t respond back. She pawed his hand, wanting to feel it back on her.

“All right, I get it,” he said petting her side again.

Piper wiggled around until she was comfortably laid out listening to Jace’s voice.

About Crissy Smith:

Crissy Smith lives in Texas with her husband, daughter, and three Labrador retrievers. The three dogs love to curl up under her computer desk and nap while she writes. It doesn’t leave a lot of room for her but what’s a woman to do?

When not writing or reading, she enjoys hunting, camping and shooting. But she has a girly side too and is addicted to pedicures and coffee.

She has been writing since she was a teenager and still loves everything to do with the paranormal. Her stories and characters all have a place in her heart. She loves the alpha male, the dominant werewolf, or the Master vampire which find their way in most of her books.

Learn more about the characters she has created at her website where they have their very own page. It will be updated from time to time to let you know what’s going on with them. Also you can find out who will be in the next book.

As Europe’s No 1 publisher of Erotic Romance Fiction, our philosophy is simple. We want to provide our readers with an ‘A List’ experience that lets them lose themselves in gorgeous stories that offer stimulation for the imagination. Our mission is to bring fabulous fiction to the widest possible audience. We lead where others follow and we’re dedicated to developing the profile of our authors and our industry as a whole.

I’m a lover of metaphors. I don’t know whether this one holds or not. You tell me.

Like an addict I break down sometimes and must have more books. Despite whether I still have books yet left to read, I am lured by the reviews, by the word of mouth, by an article, by the writer themselves, or the simple fact that I already love the writer’s works. My back and forth life of books demonstrates this state of tension between the desire to write and the desire to read; the desire to spend every moment possible with family and the desire to fold inside; the desire to accumulate breathtaking knowledge, the desire to share it, and the desire to be blown away by someone’s simple ability to put a sentence together. Over and over.

You can see it on Goodreads. I go through a spurt where I list multitudes of books. Then my reviews are silent for months, or even a year. Just as suddenly, I will review 20 books on the same day, committing the cardinal sin of an author by not leaving words, just stars, because to write a review, for me, is the same meticulously governed authorial task as is a chapter in a book, or a poem, or an article.

I am the same way with information. I can spend my entire morning lost in the email zone where each email takes me to another social media experience or piece of information that I then digest and spread, much like that old “go forth and procreate” adage. I intermix information with other authors, publishers, groups, and businesses like a sponge, making some contacts and spreading the info back out to multiple streams where other addicts like me lap them up.

If I withdraw it has to be cold turkey. One sitting at my computer and I am already jonesing for whatever the latest email influx brings. Luckily I don’t yet wear my smartphone like a tenticle, something that cannot be said for another generation of addicts already far gone.

But this addiction thing has its benefits because I am a writer. The impetus to write is just as strong as everything else. The reading I do catalyzes into a stronger urge to write. Great things can do that to you—urge you on. Inspire you.

The best moments are when I withdraw to write. When one is in the zone writing, nothing else exists.

Then I am at peace.

—oOo—

K.D. Rose is a poet and author who currently has published “Heavy Bags of Soul”, “Inside Sorrow”, “I AM”, “Erasing: Shadows”, “Anger’s Children: Three Shorts That Will Blow Your Mind”, “A Taste for Mystery: Two Novellas” and “The Brevity of Twit”.

Her poetry has been published in Candlelit Journal, the Voices Project, and showcased in the Tophat Raven Art and Literary Magazine. K.D.’s book, Inside Sorrow won the Readers Favorite 2013 international Silver Medal for Poetry.

This one dressed like the stereotype of a construction worker, down to the handkerchief he used to wipe sweat off his forehead. I don’t know if he or the hot day brought it out, but sweat poured off of me too. He had no interest in me as a person, though. I was invading his territory. Still, I enjoyed the view. For my part, I knew my clothes looked crappy. I didn’t have to wear uniforms anymore, but my street clothes, well they were very—street. So there I stood, a turd in the sun in front of this Adonis. Oh well.

He pointed to a small trailer up a muddy hill. The supervisor I asked to see apparently stayed in there. Stayed, as in never left. Great. Mud. Now I’d be a dried turd in the sun. Adonis went back to digging and I started the trek up the hill. At least I came with boots. Steel toed.

Once I made it to the trailer, I heard an argument going on inside.

“Look, I don’t care who you are. The plans are publically filed. Go get them yourself!” yelled someone.

Then I heard a voice I knew. Calm, cool, subversive. “Is there any reason you’re being so difficult? A man did die on your watch.”

An encounter I hadn’t planned on. Well, at least not until later tonight. I knocked loudly on the door and with my sweetest voice said, “Hello, boys. Am I interrupting something?”

“Great,” groused the supervisor. “A party.” He appeared to me like another stereotype, puffing on a cigar over a fat jowl line and rotund stomach that threatened to overturn the small desk he was behind. I guess there’s a reason for stereotypes. He looked about four hamburgers away from a heart attack.

On a wooden chair in front of the supervisor sat Jack. A fellow independent detective, an ally at times, a competitor…and my on and off lover.

“Well, well, well,” he said smiling, but I could tell he wasn’t happy to see me. Not here. It meant we were both working the same case. “Hello, Carolyn. Who hired you?”

I've always loved books and when I discovered that I could mix my passion for books with my love of organising things, it was a match made in heaven. Helping authors to reach readers is the ultimate perk!

Who doesn’t love a Book Fair? It’s a chance to support your local library (the most common venue for Book Fests), browse tables full of books, and mingle with the local authors promoting them. If you love the feel-good atmosphere of a craft show, you’ll want to reproduce the same type of setup if you have the chance to help plan a local book fair.
My local library is planning such an event for Spring 2016. They start planning their schedules in September for next year. The events coordinator was kind enough to suggest he’d welcome feedback from me as a local author. Cool, I said, and I wrote out my humble suggestions. I list them here for your consideration. What do you think? Do you have any recommendations of your own to add?
1) Any date in April because Easter 2016 is March 27. Shop in April, buy for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Graduations.
2) Advertise the event as a Fundraiser for the Library. People will come to a fundraiser quicker than they’ll come to an event billed as Author Fest by itself. Have a banner outside library like you do with the annual Book Sale. Banner says something like, Fundraiser for the Library – Author Fest (Or, Local Authors Support Lincoln Library). Emphasize that point in advertising. Not just a small poster at front desk like for regular events. All authors at event must cheer on Lincoln Library. It’s about the community not just the authors. Authors in Support of Reading.
3) Book Tables in Municipal Room where annual Book Sale held. Coffee and Doughnuts in separate room, the Reading Room – that conference room by the bulletin board outside front doors. Offer authors a ten minute or fifteen minute time period to read excerpt from their book. You had said that some authors were too shy to read last time. You may be surprised at how publishing has changed in that time, all authors incl. small press and self-pubbed authors are advised they have to promote themselves at events and are eager to do so. Authors must also help promote the event on social media.
4) Ask for a short bio (three lines, a small paragraph) from every author who signs up that you will use in press release and to release online in posts to Lincoln Library Facebook page in weeks leading up to the event.
5) Contact local historical societies and museums if you want authors of non-fiction about Pittsburgh area. For example, the caretaker of Fort Ligonier in Westmoreland County wrote a coffee-table hardback book with photos of letters that George Washington wrote about his experiences in the French and Indian War.
6) A big draw would be local sports columnist books about the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates. Also that guy who claims his house on XYZ street is haunted, he pulls them in at horror cons.
7) Authors must donate a book to the raffle. Tickets – 5 tickets for $5 but 15 for $10. Make it attractive to lay down a ten. Winners need not be present to win but must be willing to pick up their prize at the library or have a friend pick it up for them. Maybe can send to their local library if within the county’s interlibrary loan system which has van pickup. No mailing, too pricey.
8) Emphasize the craft show atmosphere, that people can browse and local authors will be happy to talk with them, no pressure. Big sign, Buy a Gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Graduation. Come Support the Library and Encourage Reading.
Cheryle Williams is a Desert Breeze author of Young Adult fiction Stairway to Heaven (YA angel paranormal) and Strangers in the Province of Joy (YA contemporary). Plus two coffee table paperbacks from a branch of Chicken Soup Publishing titled The Ultimate Bird Lover and The Ultimate Guide to Christian Living (two anthologies with photographs in which she has a story.) You can find her on Facebook as Cheryl Elaine Williams, Pittsburgh PA https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.e.williams.5
Her website: http://www.cherylewilliams.net
She moderates the Desert Breeze Publishing Goodreads Group page at https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/163604-desert-breeze-publishing
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Cheryle Williams is a freelance writer residing in Pittsburgh PA and an author of YA fiction with Desert Breeze Publishing. Her debut novel, Stairway to Heaven, is a YA angel paranormal with sweet romantic elements, available in e-book format and in print Nov. 2014.

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